We've had lots of questions about the SoWa Open Market and whether or not Salem will be getting an open market of its own.

Here's your answer courtesy of Destination Salem.

The City of Salem, Massachusetts has announced that New England Open Markets will oversee vending in Salem for three weekends in October. New England Open Markets is most recognized for creating the popular SoWa Open Market in the South End of Boston, and in October they will create the Salem Open Market, which will bring in an exciting mix of artisan goods for sale to Salem. 

The SoWa Open Market has a great reputation for funky, unique shopping, and Salem is excited to have New England Open Markets bring their expertise and vendors to Salem Haunted Happenings. The goal is to have a street fair that compliments the existing, year-round businesses and increases Salem’s profile as a great place to shop and visit in October. The Salem Open Market will operate on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and Derby Square from 11am – 6pm on October 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28, 2012.

“We love the mix of vendors at the SoWa Open Market, and look forward to some of them coming to Salem,” says Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll, “It is our hope that the new Salem Open Market ads something new and appealing to Salem’s already bustling October season.” 

Chris Masci, owner and founder of New England Open Markets, is enthusiastic about creating the Salem Open Market, “Everyone knows to visit Salem in October, and we are excited to introduce that audience to our crafters, artists, and vendors.  In the short time since our proposal was accepted, our vendor spaces are more than 70 percent full.”

The annual Haunted Biz Baz, operated by the Salem Chamber of Commerce, will continue to operate on Columbus Day weekend, October 6-7.  The Salem Open Market will begin the following weekend.

In addition to SoWa, New England Open Markets produces markets on the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston, Hingham, Newport, and Providence. This is the first year that the City of Salem has issued a single source RFP for vending; a single source RFP for food service in October has been in place for four years. 

For more information on the Salem Open Market, visit SalemOpenMarket.com. Complete information on Salem Haunted Happenings is available at HauntedHappenings.org.